No, You Can’t Use EBT For Tobacco, Alcohol, or Adult-Oriented Services In Louisiana!

Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services will prohibit the use of cash assistance program benefits at liquor stores, gaming, or adult-oriented entertainment establishments. Plus, the new rules will prohibit using a benefits card to purchase tobacco, alcohol, or lottery tickets at any retailer.

With these rules come some penalties for those who choose to violate. After the first offense, the cardholder will be suspended for one year. The second offense calls for a two year suspension. Third strike, you're out.

Retailers and concerned citizens will be responsible for calling out the fraud and reporting it to the department. The Department of Child and Family Services will also randomly review monthly transactions to see any potential fraud.